25th Feb, 2026 11:00
A late 17th century brass 30-hour lantern clock, in a slightly later oak longcase, William Kenning (London), the bell cross frame with turned finial over foliate scroll frets, the foliate engraved dial signed 'Wm Kenning, Londini fecit', with single hand and silvered chapter ring, on turned feet, spike and hoop fittings to the rear, the turned four column movement with verge escapement, short bob pendulum and countwheel strking on a bell, 41 cm high, the late 17th century panelled case with moulded protruding top, hinged glazed doors to front and one side and moulded plinth base, 203 cm high
Post 1675 Kenning started work in Banbury, Oxfordshire then moved to London in 1675.
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From the estate of the late William John Thornton (1937-2025), of Groby, Leicestershire. Known as 'John' to his friends and family, he became interested in steam engines from an early age, and then traction engines and aircraft, before building an extensive knowledge and collection of clocks, notably early Lantern clocks and longcases. He was a very keen member of the Antiquarian Horological Society, and gave several lectures to their members at Keble College, Oxford. John was also a member of the Furniture Society in Groby village, and the Groby allotment Society, being chairman of the latter for over 30 years.
An important collection from the Estate of the late William John Thornton
An important collection from the Estate of the late William John Thornton (1937-2025), of Groby, Leicestershire. 'John', as he was known, was an enthusiastic collector and scholar of early English clocks, and a dedicated member of the Antiquarian Horological Society, where he lectured on clocks at Keble College, Oxford, and contributed articles to respected horological publications. His passion for early timepieces—particularly lantern clocks and longcase clocks—resulted in a carefully curated collection that reflects both historical importance and technical excellence.
Sold for £1,400
Condition Report
Clock with likely amendments made from the original. Not tested as working. Case in good overall condition with age-related wear. No sign of worm.
A late 17th century brass 30-hour lantern clock, in a slightly later oak longcase, William Kenning (London), the bell cross frame with turned finial over foliate scroll frets, the foliate engraved dial signed 'Wm Kenning, Londini fecit', with single hand and silvered chapter ring, on turned feet, spike and hoop fittings to the rear, the turned four column movement with verge escapement, short bob pendulum and countwheel strking on a bell, 41 cm high, the late 17th century panelled case with moulded protruding top, hinged glazed doors to front and one side and moulded plinth base, 203 cm high
Post 1675 Kenning started work in Banbury, Oxfordshire then moved to London in 1675.
Thinking of Selling a Clock?
Our friendly experts offer free valuations and clear advice, guiding you through a seamless selling process. With a no sale, no fee policy, no entry charges, and no hidden costs, it’s simple and risk-free to sell clocks with Dawsons.
Provenance
From the estate of the late William John Thornton (1937-2025), of Groby, Leicestershire. Known as 'John' to his friends and family, he became interested in steam engines from an early age, and then traction engines and aircraft, before building an extensive knowledge and collection of clocks, notably early Lantern clocks and longcases. He was a very keen member of the Antiquarian Horological Society, and gave several lectures to their members at Keble College, Oxford. John was also a member of the Furniture Society in Groby village, and the Groby allotment Society, being chairman of the latter for over 30 years.
An important collection from the Estate of the late William John Thornton
An important collection from the Estate of the late William John Thornton (1937-2025), of Groby, Leicestershire. 'John', as he was known, was an enthusiastic collector and scholar of early English clocks, and a dedicated member of the Antiquarian Horological Society, where he lectured on clocks at Keble College, Oxford, and contributed articles to respected horological publications. His passion for early timepieces—particularly lantern clocks and longcase clocks—resulted in a carefully curated collection that reflects both historical importance and technical excellence.
